Suffolk judge bans media from Del. Rick Morris hearing

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SUFFOLK, Va. - A Suffolk judge banned media from the courtroom on Thursday, saying he will not allow them to cover a child abuse case involving state Delegate Rick Morris.

In September, Morris was accused of physically assaulting his 11-year-old stepson and his wife Kathryn.

Morris had an adjudicatory hearing on Tuesday, where a judge will determine if the abuse claims are true.

According to Virginia state law, juvenile and domestic relations cases are open to the public if the defendant is an adult. The judge is allowed to close a hearing under special circumstances, but must sight reasons and findings as to why.

In October, Morris and his wife withdrew their protective orders against each other, and agreed to share joint custody of their children.